May Art Trails & Events

Artbourne is a new art trail taking place across Ashbourne, transforming the town centre into a walkable gallery of artwork displayed in independent shops, cafés and community spaces. 

The trail brings together local and regional artists, showcasing a wide variety of creative work throughout the town. From painting and illustration to ceramics, textiles and mixed media, Artbourne weaves art into Ashbourne’s historic streets and everyday spaces. 

The town will host over 100 artists across 20+ venues, alongside pop-ups, live demonstrations, workshops, music, and street food. Visitors can explore the trail at their own pace across the weekend. 

An exhibition will also take place at St Oswald’s Church as part of the event. Affiliate Member Jenny Marshall will have work on show here!

Entry to the Artbourne Arts Trail is via a £5 weekend wristband. This includes access to all venues and exhibitions, along with a printed trail map and artist guide. Under 12s attend free. Wristbands are available in advance from Handmade Design & F Coffee, or on the day from the Link Centre, Town Hall, Shrovetide Walk, and St Oswald’s Church. 

A limited number of VIP tickets are currently available at £25. These include full weekend access, early entry to St Oswald’s Church, a drink on arrival, and exclusive live storytelling. 

As always you can find some of our Affiliate members along the Art Trail including; 

 

CRZY Best @crzybest

 

Zaza Lewis – @artizaza

 

Abbie Sunter – @sunter_studio

 

Sarah Perkins – @sarahperkinsart 

 

Steph Trethowan – @stephtrethart

 

Wylde Oake Artistry – @wyldeoake.artistry 

 

Find out more about Artbourne by following the links below.

https://www.discoverashbourne.com/special-events/ashbourne-art-trail-artbourne  

https://www.instagram.com/artbourne.arttrail/  

 

Other Events in May

Sunday 3rd & Bank Holiday Monday 4th May – 10.30am – 4.30pm

Spring is the perfect time to get outside, support your local shops and business as well as artists and makers. May also sees the return of the Belper Arts Trail taking place on both days where you’ll be able to find.

Scarlett Flint – @flintandgaia –  in the Co Create Space in the Coop at the centre of Belper  

 

 

16th-17th of May (NEW FOR 2026) – 10am – 4pm

The Artisan Show at Maxstoke Castle, Warwickshire set within the grounds of the historic castle. This event brings together a curated selection of high-quality British handmade and heritage crafts. For the first time at this location, the show will also feature a living history experience from the Knights of Honour. Visitors can step into 14th-century England and explore a fully immersive encampment, with demonstrations including traditional crafts such as fletching, candle making, cooking, ceramics, and a working forge.

Tickets must be booked in advance and are limited.

Admission: £10 per adult  £5 per child  – Under 5s go free

Parking included (booking fees apply) – you can book tickets online here

Affiliate Member Sarah Perkins – @sarahperkinsart will be showing her work at Maxstoke Castle.

 

23-25 May – various times – see brochure for more info

 High Peak Open Studios in Buxton where artists and makers invite the public into their working spaces or into shared exhibition venues. It’s a chance to see art being made, hear the stories behind the work, and connect directly with the creative community.  

Teresa Hawkins – @flamingoglassmosiacs – will be in St John’s Church